Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has announced that Kenyans can now access free outpatient services in public health facilities across the country, in line with President William Ruto’s directive on Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
“In a decisive step towards achieving and implementing the Government’s goal of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), H.E. President William Ruto has directed that all outpatient services in government dispensaries, health centres and sub-county hospitals be offered free of charge in accordance with the Primary Health Care fund,” said Duale.
The free package covers consultations, diagnosis, and treatment for common medical conditions, with patients no longer required to pay out of pocket. Laboratory services, basic radiological exams such as X-rays and ultrasounds, and prescribed medication will also be provided at no cost.
Other services include wellness promotion, counselling, and education, along with the management of chronic and infectious diseases such as non-communicable diseases, sexually transmitted infections, and HIV/AIDS. Mental health services—previously unaffordable for many—are also included, offering education, counselling, and psychological support.
Minor outpatient procedures under local anaesthesia, immunisations under the Kenya Expanded Program on Immunisation (KEPI), antenatal and postnatal care, and other child health interventions will also be provided for free.
Duale urged members of the public to report any cases of illegal charges for these services by calling SHA on 147. His announcement comes days after 40 hospitals were suspended from the SHA programme over allegations of fraud, with the government moving to recover funds paid out on false claims.
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